19/12/2025
THERAPEUTIC ROCKING
Rocking is a powerful self-regulation technique that calms the nervous system by activating the parasympathetic "rest and digest" state, stimulating the calming vestibular system, and creating a rhythmic, meditative focus, helping to reduce symptoms of Trauma, Stress, and anxiety, improve concentration, and ground you by mimicking an early soothing experience.
Rocking is a technique that I like to teach my clients, in conjunction with other trauma-informed Techniques. You can use this individually or with a loved one.
Many are very stressed at this time and this is a wonderful gift of support for a loved one.
To begin, have the person receiving the treatment lie on their right side (if they are comfortable this way). The right side activates the rest cycle of the right brain hemisphere and will induce sleep more quickly. Place a pillow under their neck. Some people also feel comfortable hugging a pillow at their belly. The person giving the treatment will sit behind them. Then the “giver” will take their left palm, fingers placed upward and place it directly over the sacrum. The right hand, right on the neck on the cervical vertebrae and the hand will cup very naturally around the neck. Touch is very light, gently rocking the sacrum by pushing with the palm. Do this for a minimum of 10 minutes, with gentle suggestion for breathing, closed eyes and up to 20 minutes until your partner falls asleep or is completely relaxed.
You can do this on your own, sitting at the edge of the seat, ROCKING gently, eyes closed, breathing slowly and rhythmically.
Art: Caitlin Welz-Stein